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FREE Guide INSIDE!
Taste tested Andrew Brow, owner of High Brow in Northampton, Mass., and Springfield’s newest eatery, Jackalope (opening May 11) took home top honors for his sticky ribs at the East of the River Five Town Chamber of Commerce’s (ERC5) “Feast in the East’” competition on April 26 at Great Horse. For more info on Brow’s newest venture, visit eatjackalope.com Photo courtesy of ERC5
Spring Sizzler in Stafford Local hero Ronnie Williams of Ellington nabbed fourth place at Stafford Motor Speedways’ Spring Sizzler season kick April 24. See Page 42 for full results. Photo by Jim Dupont
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MARCH 27 to MAY 28
2 North Central News May 2022
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East Windsor First selectman’s corner
Town’s fiscal position remains strong EAST WINDSOR — As was true in previous years, the town budget recommendation for fiscal year 2022/23 limits new spending to a few Jason Bowsza needed items and reallocates some existing expenditures to new initiatives in different departments. The recommendation, compiled by the Boards of Selectmen and Education and approved by the Board of Finance, goes to voters for approval on May 10 at a town-wide referendum. Referendum hours will be from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the established polling locations. Under the final budget proposal, the mill rate would increase by 0.07 mills, from 34.5 mills to 34.57 mills. This equates to a 0.20% tax increase. The overall impact on the average taxpayer (assuming an average home value of $216,000) would be $11 for the year. This nearly flat increase is largely supported by robust growth in our grand list of 4.18%. The spending increase for town government services is 2.45% and for the Board of Education is 2.37%. The total spending increase is 2.4%, again leaving the tax rate effectively flat. The proposal includes funding for retention of an economic development
coordinator on a 12-month basis, investment in debt service to free up additional bond capacity, reductions in employee benefits, plus additional funding for the popular summer concert series and local library associations. Also on the ballot will be the budget request for the Broad Brook Fire Department. It is a flat budget — a 0% spending increase, and a 0% tax increase over the current year. It should be noted that the town’s 2021 grand liist grew by 4.18% over 2020. The grand list is now above $1 billion and since I took office, it has grown by more than $50 million. A few key points that should be highlighted if you compare East Windsor grand list changes with surrounding towns. First, East Windsor’s motor vehicle valuation increase was one of the more conservative amongst surrounding towns for which data is available. Nevertheless, increased values in motor vehicles, especially in used cars, are seeing historic increases across the state, driven by higher demand and significantly reduced supply. Second, communities that have implemented property revaluations in the last year have seen tremendous growth in their grand lists. Thirdly, East Windsor saw the most
robust grand list growth of any town in the region not implementing a revaluation, and despite our conservative motor vehicle valuation estimates. In fact, our grand list growth was 10% higher than any community in the region not implementing a property revaluation this year. The grand list is broken into three categories: real estate, personal property, and motor vehicles. Over the last three years, a consistent shift has emerged showing less reliance on real estate. When further examining the composition of real estate property valuation, we see a continued trend away from residential property owners and onto commercial/industrial property owners. This shows homeowners are being relied on less to fund the workings of town government than they were in 2019. The town has taken steps to ensure unprecedented levels of transparency in terms of finances, through the integration of software that allows the taxpayer to view budget and expenditure history (current to within 30 days), under-
stand where specific tax dollars are spent, and do a deep dive of expenditures by department. Additionally, a comprehensive budget book will be available to the public once the FY22/23 budget is adopted by voters. In the last year, the Town utilized a portion of its American Rescue Plan Act allocation to fund a small business and nonprofit grant program. More than 115 entities in East Windsor received local relief grants to help their businesses recover from the effects of the pandemic. This was the town’s good-faith effort to show that it is sincere in its intentions to be a business-friendly community. Our debt capacity is in a place where we could borrow $10 million for needed infrastructure projects without increasing our debt service budget by more than the standard 2% per year. And our pension funded ration stands at 84.4% with expectations that it will crest 90% at the next valuation. The town’s fiscal position is strong, we are well positioned for good things to come, and our best days are still ahead.
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East Windsor Honor roll EAST WINDSOR — The following students have been named to the East Windsor Middle School third quarter honor roll. Grade 8 High honors: Evan Bober, Liliana Dacosta, Peter Davis, Willard Davis, Katelyn Duncan, Thomas Ferrick, Gabryella Guzie, Ella Marschall, Timothy Mehan, Lily Raymond, Elizabeth Romel, Thomas Romel, Kaitlyn Rouleau, Ali Taylor, Mya Wilson. Honors: Ryan Berry, Laci Chenette, Kasey Macsata, Braydon Natitus, Dymond Nelson, Mikilana Vong. Grade 7 High honors: Jainil Bhatt, Johnathan Corsetti, Madeline Knisley, Lukas LaBelle, Cody Lentner, Cassidy Miller, Nadia Mohammed, Isabella Scheuermann, Ian Thompson, William Towers, Cameron Trull. Honors: Sibbie Bacigalupo, Isabelle Bancroft, Landon Boice, Nicole Brown, Gavin Carabase, Miranda Cloutier, Athalia Decker, Amarilys Esmurria, Djhulissa Gauthier, Isabella Graham, Niko Hernandez, Josiah Herrera, Cooper King, Jace Kusy, Logan Lovell-Wohl, Laila-Jasmine Lunsford, Rylee Macsata, Cayla Pearson, Grady Rhoads, Chloe Risley , Jacob Steele, Yadiel Tasayco, Elicia Tyson, David Wojcik Grade 6 High honors: Thomas Bloznalis, Sara Daigle, Ramphy Hernandezm, Giannah Hutchins, Kidest Kassa, Kassie Keyes, Giuliana Lagana, Janiyah Mathews, Jalexis Mercado, Jason Neill, Kirk
Taylor, Wyatt Temple, Anna Whetton. Honors: Aalieyha Askew, Maxwell Betancourt, Florian Blackwood, Jacob Burnham, John Fahey, William Ferrick, Sadie Gagnon, Skyla Gonzalez, Donald Howard, Kylie Keyes, Maeve Kittredge, Cody Lefelar, Kelly Lemus-Herrera, Caleb Lewis, Evan Mader, Lena Misluk, Arianne Morin, Julius Muhumuza, Dorian Ribeiro, Francis Scheuermann, Gianna Sigleski, Ava Wark, Ava Young. Grade 5 High honors: Kylie Bartholomew, William Braman, Blake Castor, Amora Cazarez, Mikaela Diaz-Martinez, Natalie Dionne, Benjamin Ferrick, Christopher Godin, Riley Hernandez, Ryan Hernandez, Victoria Hutchins, Kendall Johns, Beniam Kassa, Sreethan Kolla, Emily Kolodziej, Serenity Leuzzi-Moore, Annalai Navaroli, Jameson Parent, Jacob Povost, Collin Raymond, Thirunavuka Sivaganesh, Delaney Tepper, Darius Turcin, Natalie VanGasbeck, Victoria Vazquez, Micah Vong. Honors: Jace Arre, Lauren Berry, Mia Boice, Kendall Boulay, Liam Briggs, Madeline Burnham, Mykelti Christie, Christopher Clark, Ana-Marlene Davis, Ruth Decker, Riley Fry-Loomis, Madison Griffin, Alexianna Guilbe, Giana Guzie, Ryan Hallett, Chloe Howell, Abigail King, Brittney McCarthy, Tierney Mehan, David Moran, John Moran, Maya Muir, Elyse Nordell, Michael Ortiz, Mia Phillips, Emily Risley, Isabella Rosales, Summer Soto, Kaelyn Spooner, Lorelai Standish, Nylah Taylor, Lacey-Jean Temple, James Thompson, Tyrone Upshaw, Jordan Venti, Christian White.
Annual Purple Event to benefit Network Against Domestic Abuse EAST WINDSOR — The Network Against Domestic Abuse Annual Purple Event will be Friday, June 10 at La Notte Weddings & Banquets in East Windsor. Guests will enjoy a variety of wine and beer tastings provided by Joe’s Fine Wine & Spirits of East Windsor and Ellington, delicious buffet dinner, and dessert. Entertainment will be provided by Pair Extraordinaire, a light jazz duet plus fabulous silent and live auctions. The Network Against Domestic Abuse works diligently to provide services to victims of domestic abuse including outreach, court support, counseling services, 24-hour hotline, a safe haven for women, men, and children in need of shelter, as well as prevention education to youth and adults in the communities we serve. The annual Purple Event supports the many services that are provided free . Committee members are hard at work planning a fun-filled event. Among those serving on the committee are
Chairpersons Eileen Hargreaves and Maureen Sampl; Mina Flebotte, Karen Foley O’Connor, Donna Jones-Searle, Luci Lawson, Maureen Leddy, Yogini Majmudar, Jeannie Newman, Patti Patton, Christine Roby, and Brielle Walsh. Sponsor opportunities range from $5,000 to $125. Tickets cost $75, include a tax-deductible donation, and can be purchased online at bidpal.net/purpleevent2022, texting purpleevent2022 to 243725, or emailing Luci Lawson at administrator@thenetworkct.org.
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East Windsor Senior news EAST WINDSOR — The Senior Center at 125 Main St., Broad Brook, is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Preregistration is required for all programs and lunch. Call (860) 292-8262. The center will be closed Monday May 30 in observance of Memorial Day. CRT Meals are being served daily at the Senior Center weekdays at noon. Suggested donation is $3/meal. Make a reservation by calling (860) 292-8279 by 11 a.m. the day before you would like the meal. Upcoming programs include: AARP Safe-Driver Course (25 School St.): Monday, May 9, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Seminar: The Probate Process in Connecticut: Thursday, May 12 at 12:30 p.m. Younger than Springtime: An Afternoon of Music with Diane: Friday, May 13 at 12 p.m. We’re Hooked (knitting/crocheting club): Fridays, May 6, 20, and 27 at 12:30 p.m. Monthly Birthday Social Featuring Jose Paulo: May 26 at 12 p.m.
Open Cards: Tuesdays, May 10, 17, 24, and 31 at 10:30 a.m. Cribbage: Wednesdays, May 11, 18, and 25 at 10:30 a.m. Tech Time with Comfort Keepers: Friday, May 6 at 12:30 p.m. Coffee Hour: Wednesdays, May 11, 18, and 25 at 12:30 p.m. Ask the Attorney: Thursday, May 19 at 10 a.m. (by appointment). $$$BINGO: Thursday, May 19 at 12:30 p.m. Ask the Financial Adviser: Friday May 20 at 12:30 p.m. (by appointment). Memorial Garden Dedication: Friday, May 27 at 12:30 p.m. Trivia with Teresa: Friday, May 27 at 10:30 a.m. Book Club on the Go, “The Library of Lost and Found” by Phaedra Patrick: Monday, May 23 at 10:30 a.m. SHOPPING Big Y/ Walmart: Mondays, May 9, 16, and 23 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Geissler’s: Wednesdays, May 11, 18, and 25 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Mobile Food Share at St. Catherine’s: Fridays, May 13 and 27 from 1 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Bus leaves Center at 12:30 p.m.
EW’s own Murphy’s Law set to perform in Summer Concert Series EAST WINDSOR — The Parks and Recreation Department has announced the lineup for its 2022 Summer Concert Series. This year’s installment kicks off with the Leaf Jumpers June 16, followed by modern country rockers Audacity June 23 and East Windsor’s own Murphy’s Law (pictured above) round out the month on June 30. With July comes ’50s-’60s specialists Rave On July 7, rock-pop-countrybluesers Three 57 July 14 and
The Connecticut Trolley Museum 58 North Road, East Windsor, CT 06088 More info: 860-627-6540 of昀ce@ct-trolley.org www.ct-trolley.org
The Connecticut Trolley Museum is excited to honor Mothers and Grandmothers free admission with a paid adult or child admission. Spend a few hours with the family, enjoying all the activities at the trolley museum.
Railroadiana Flea Market & Book Sale
Saturday, May 21 * Sunday, May 22 from 10am-4:30pm $10 per vendor and $10 per table (if needed). Vendor fees support the Trolley Museum’s ongoing activities. Please register in advance.
ADMISSION PRICES: Adults $13 Children (2-11) $8 OPEN 10am-4:30pm
Spring Fling Beer & Wine Tasting Saturday, May 14 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm Beer and wine tasting at the trolley museum. Enjoy tastings rain or shine- Food Truck and Bands too! Tickets are $20 made in advance, $25 at the door on the day of the event. General admission will apply to those who aren’t sampling.
Memorial Day Monday, May 30 10:00 am - 4:30 pm Free admission for active military personnel and veterans
May 2022 North Central News
Mother’s Day Fun!
Sunday, May 8 10:00 am - 4:30 pm
Downtown 6 July 21. Billy Joel replicators Stiletto perform July 28. New Orleans’ funksters WhoDat claim the series’ lone Tuesday performance on Aug. 2. Skyway (Aug. 11), Full Krew (Aug. 18) and Shaded Soul (Aug. 25) bring it back to Thursdays – and wrap the summer slate. All shows are free and run from 6-8 p.m. at the East Windsor Park on 27 Reservoir Ave. in Broad Brook. Bring your own picnic or purchase snacks from the snack bar.
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East Windsor Parks & Recreation
Of昀ce Hours:
25 School Street, East Windsor CT 06088 860-627-6662
WE ARE NOW OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Monday-Wednesday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Thursday 8:30 am - 7:00 pm Friday 8:30 am - 1:00 pm
www.EastWindsorRec.com
COMMUNITY EVENTS Fishing Derby This annual event is hosted by East Windsor Parks & Recreation in partnership with the Broad Brook Angling Club, Inc. The Derby is open to kids ages 15 and under. Participants must supply their own bait (worms, PowerBait, shiners). Lures are NOT allowed. Prizes will be awarded for 昀rst 昀sh caught, largest 昀sh caught, and 昀rst person to catch their 4 昀sh limit in each age group. We ask that participants/spectators bring a non-perishable food donation for the Five Corner Cupboard. Date: Saturday, May 7th, 2022 Location: East Windsor Park, 27 Reservoir Road, Broad Brook Time: 8:00am-11:00am (Registration is from 7-8 am) Cost: FREE
6 North Central News May 2022
SUMMER PROGRAMS Home Alone Safety Home Alone Safety for Kids is a unique class for boys and girls ages 8 to 13 years old who are left home alone. This interactive 90-minute course will cover safety concerns parents have when their children are by themselves. Students will learn to be more aware of the potential dangers that they could face when they are alone. Date: Monday, May 23 Location: Town Hall Annex, 25 School Street, East Windsor Time: 4:30 pm-6:00 pm Cost: $15 per child Summer Mini-Camps East Windsor Parks and Recreation will be holding several mini camps during the summer, including: Cheer & Tumble 101 with World Cup All-Stars: 8/15-8/19 Circuit Lab (Full Day or Half Day options): 7/11-7/15 Food Explorers: 6/20-6/24 Incredi昀ix Summer Camp (Full or Half Day options): 7/25-7/29
Summer Fun Camp Summer Fun Camp will be open for kids ages 4-11. The hours are M-F 8:30- 4:30. The cost is $200/week. We will have on-site entertainment weekly. Registration opens May 1 at www.EastWindsorRec.com. Swim Lessons Classes will be held in two-week sessions Monday-Thursday. Friday will be reserved for makeups due toweather cancellations. Date: Session 1: 6/27-7/8, Session 2: 7/117/22, Session 3: 7/25-8/5, Session 4: 8/8-8/19 Location: “The Res” 27 Reservoir Avenue, Broad Brook Time: depends on level Cost: Residents: $40.00 per session; NonResidents: $50.00 per session Summer Concert Series Our summer concert series is back! A fun, FREE event for the whole family! Bring a picnic dinner and enjoy an outdoor concert at the new Band Shell in East Windsor Park! Date: Thursdays 6/16-8/25 (no 8/4), plus National Night Out on Tuesday 8/2 Location: East Windsor Park, 27 Reservoir Avenue, Broad Brook Time: 6:00 pm-8:00 pm SEASONAL POSITIONS FOR SUMMER 2022 East Windsor Parks & Recreation is now accepting applications for summer seasonal positions. This year we are hiring for the following positions: Camp Counselors, Lifeguards, Swim Instructors, and Gatehouse & Snack Bar Staff. All applicants should be 16 years of age. We will accept applications until all positions are 昀lled. Applications can be downloaded from the Town of East Windsor website or at www. EastWindsorRec.com. Completed applications can be mailed to the Parks & Recreation Of昀ce at 25 School Street, East Windsor CT 06088. Applications can also be placed in the black drop box outside of the Town Hall Annex. Please call 860.627.6662 with any questions.
EAST WINDSOR PARK (27 Reservoir Avenue, Broad Brook) East Windsor Park maintains two pavilions that are available to rent for church gatherings, birthday parties, baby showers and more! Each pavilion has its own kitchen with sink, refrigerator, and outside triple charcoal grill. Please visit www.EastWindsorRec.com to see availability and reserve your date. Pavilion Rental Rates: (all prices are per pavilion) Out of Season: (Labor Day to Memorial Day) East Windsor Group $175.00 Out-of-Town Group $275.00 Clean-Up Fee $ 50.00 (refundable) In-Season: (Memorial Day to Labor Day ) East Windsor Group $175.00 + $2/pp gate fee (children under 2 FREE) Out-of-Town Group $225.00 + $3/pp gate fee (children under 2 FREE) Clean-Up Fee $ 50.00 (refundable) To rent a pavilion please visit www.EastWindsorRec.com The waterfront and splashpad at East Windsor Park will be open June 11-19th (weekends only) and tentatively 7 days a week beginning June 24th. Gate Admission (includes walk-ins) Resident: $2.00 per person Non-resident: Adults (ages 17–59) $5.00 per person Children (ages 3–16) $3.00 per person Children aged 2 and under and Seniors 60+ FREE Season Passes (available starting May 1) Residents: $25 (individual) or $50 (family) NEW: Non-resident Family Weekday Pass $100 (For up to six persons living at the same address & for weekday use ONLY) *Non-residents can still visit the park during the weekend- see Gate Admission above* Season passes can be purchased at the Parks and Rec of昀ce in the Town Hall Annex.
For a complete list of programs, descriptions of the mini-camps or to register for programs please visit www.EastWindsorRec.com
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Ellington
North Central Publishing dba
First selectwoman’s corner
A tree grows in Arbor Park ELLINGTON — I want to once again thank the Rotary Club of Rockville for its incredible generosity. The club recently donated a beautiful Lori Spielman tree that was planted at Arbor Park for everybody to enjoy. This tree will have large dark red leaves, and it is a beautiful addition to one of our most popular spots. I’m sure many will enjoy this new installation at Arbor Park. I recently had the pleasure of doing a ridealong with the Ellington Volunteer Ambulance Corps; the ambulance corps has been very busy offering mutual aid to our surrounding towns of Somers, East Windsor, Vernon, Stafford, and Tolland, as well as responding to our own calls.
First Selectwoman Lori Spielman with members of the Ellington Volunteer Ambulance Corps.
P. O. Box 427, Somers, CT 06071 Phone: 860.698.0020
860.394.4262 : FAX NorthCentralNews@aol.com
Email:
We are a free, monthly publication that is direct mailed to r East Windsor, Ellington, Enfield, Somers, Stafford and Suffield, Conn. We are also available at more than 100 high traffic locales throughout Vernon and Windsor Locks for free pick up. The North Central News was created in June of 2002 and continues to be both family-owned and locally operated. Publisher/Editor
Gary Carra Assistant T o T he Publisher
First Selectwoman Lori Spielman and members of the Rotary Club of Rockville stand with the tree the club planted at Arbor Park. Photos courtesy of Ellington First Selectman’s Office I was incredibly impressed with how Upcoming budget dates to remember wonderful the staff is with all patients are Tuesday, May 10, which is our and in working directly with doctors and Annual Town Budget Meeting at nurses at the receiving facilities; we truly Ellington High School at 7 p.m., as well have an excellent emergency response as Tuesday, May 24, the Budget team here in Ellington, and I am very Referendum from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. proud of the work the members do. Town offices will be closed on I want to share a quick reminder that Monday, May 30 for Memorial Day. As our Department of Public Works is plan- always, a townwide Memorial Day ning its open house event again this Ceremony, including parades at Crystal year; it will be held May 19 from 4 to 6 Lake and Town Center, will be held this p.m., and its Fill-A-Truck food drive year. Keep an eye on our website and will coincide with this event as well. Facebook page for more information. Check out the DPW section in the As always, please check out our webnewsletter, and keep an eye out for more site for additional information on Town information. events, services, and other offerings.
Jen Phillips Account Executives
Gary Carra Sr. e Joan ornbu Contributer Writers
aura .
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Joshua Torres Publishers Policy Information presented in the North Central News is presented for your consideration and does not necessarily represent views of the publisher or its advertisers. All information is checked for accuracy, but cannot be guaranteed. Liability for errors in advertising is limited to rerun of the ad. Errors in advertising should be brought to the attention of the publisher in writing, within seven days of publication for appropriate credit.
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MAY1-12.qxp_NCN new template 5/2/22 8:47 AM Page 8
Ellington
Ex-Ellington coach gets call to the Hall Hanson inducted into Connecticut Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame ELLINGTON — Ron Hanson’s lengthy career as a coach recently led him to be one of seven newly inducted members into the Connecticut Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame. But for Hanson, who. served as a teacher, coach and athletic director at Ellington High School from 1974-2003, one moment in his career especially stands out. Hanson lists Ellington's first league championship in 1980 as his fondest moment in coaching. “I believed, and the players believed in what we were doing. The system worked,” he said. To say it worked is putting it mildly. Hanson began coaching Ellington in 1975, one year after the Connecituct Interscholastic Athletic Association held its inaugural girls basketball state tournament. Ellington’s rise was steady and impressive. With a roster that included a
fellow member of the Connecticut Women's Basketball Hall of Fame in Lori (Kulo) Mathieu — a future UConn player — the Knights won four straight North Central Connecticut Conference titles and three consecutive state championships. Ellington won the Class S crown in 1981, edging Westbrook 50-49, before winning back-to-back Class M titles the next two seasons over Milford. The Knights topped Milford 54-51 in 1982 and again in 1983 by a 56-33 margin. During his tenure at Ellington, Ron was also the varsity boys basketball coach, junior varsity boys basketball coach, boys freshman coach, varsity golf coach, and athletic director. He served stints as varsity boys basketball coach at Somers High School and as assistant boys coach at Hartford Public. Hanson brought his talents to what was then Quinnipiac College (now University) in the fall of 1983. He
coached the Lady Braves to 25-plus victories in each of his two seasons as head coach at the Division II school. His teams captured the New England Collegiate Conference regular season and conference championships and advanced to the quarterfinals of the NCAA Division II tournament both years. His 1983-84 team, which had a 28-3 record in his inaugural season, is enshrined in the Quinnipiac Athletic Hall of Fame. “Dr. Tom Davis, the (former) men’s basketball coach at Boston College, helped me define my philosophy and coaching style,” Hanson said. “One zone offense and one-man offense. One defense, press on every possession. Play 10 players. Never yell or swear. Make certain that each player knew their assignment and had the training to succeed. Don’t worry about the other team; make sure that your players knew our
stuff.” Following the success of the 1983-84 Ron Hanson season, winning the New England Collegiate Conference championship and securing the team's first NCAA Division II tournament berth, Ron's team replicated that success in 1984-85, winning the league championship against Bridgeport and making a second NCAA appearance (Quinnipiac now competes at the Division I level). Hanson was named 1983-84 NECC Women's Basketball Coach of the Year, 1984 New Haven Tap Off Club Connecticut Female College Coach of the Year, and 1984-85 Women’s Basketball Coaches’ Association District Coach of the Year. Hanson, who is an accomplished golfer, and his wife Sandra live part time in Somers and the rest of the year in Lecanto, Florida. Sandra presented Hanson for his induction.
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MAY1-12.qxp_NCN new template 5/2/22 8:47 AM Page 9
Ellington
Fair on the Green The Ellington Women's Club is hosting the Fair on the Green on Saturday, May 7 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Town Green (100-114 Maple St.). You can shop for Mother’s Day gifts and listen to music at the Fair on the Green, tour the Ellington Historical Society’s flea market, and visit the Ellington Farmers Market. Vendors and crafters who would like to open a booth should contact ellingtonwomensclub@gmail.com for an application or for details. Farmers Market The outdoor Ellington Farmers Market season kicks off with “Mother’s Day Market” on Saturday, May 7, from 9 a.m. to noon in Arbor Park, Main Street. Every Saturday through Oct.
The town celebrated Earth Day on April 23 with a variety of events. Photo courtesy First Selectman’s Office
87 West Road, Ellington, CT 860-896-3333
thanks for voting us best wings 29 the market features a different theme with guest vendors and live musical entertainment. Popular themes this spring include Barnyard Babies Day, Gardening Grows the Spirit, Herbs and Health, and Dog Day. Over 40 vendors will be on hand each week with a variety of produce, meats, seafood, dairy, baked goods including gluten-free and vegan, plants, flowers, specialty foods, and artisan wares. The market helps low-income families purchase healthy foods by matching SNAP up to $20 per week and Farmers Market Nutrition Program vouchers. Over $25,000
was distributed through these programs in 2021. Beginning June 11 kids ages 5-12 can enjoy a free food-based educational activity and obtain a $2 token each week through Sept. 3 to purchase fresh produce by joining the Kids Power of Produce Club. The market is seeking volunteers for manning the Kids Power of Produce Club and traffic control. Contact ellingtonfarmersmarket@gmail.com to volunteer. A complete list of events and vendors can be found on the market website: https://www.ellingtonfarmersmarket.org/.
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Ellington
Math teacher’s excellence adds up to honor HARTFORD — The Connecticut State Department of Education has announced that three Connecticut teachers are being honored for their excellence as teachers in the field of mathematics, including Christopher Messier, a sixth grade math and science teacher at Center School in Christopher Ellington. Messier Messier, Patricia Hahn, a secondgrade teacher from Parkville Community School in Hartford, and Katherine Mauro, a K–4 media, technology, computer science teacher at Sandy Hook Elementary
School in Newtown have been selected as a Connecticut’s 2022 Mathematics Finalists for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. “Congratulations to Patricia, Katherine, and Christopher on this honor that highlights their years of dedication, perseverance, and content mastery in the subjects they teach,” Education Commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker said. “They epitomize the innovative educators we have here in Connecticut and the importance of our efforts to engage students in STEM fields beginning at a young age.” The names of all three educators have been forwarded to the national selection committee and are
eligible to receive a PAEMST award, the nation’s highest honor for U.S. K–12 science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and/or computer science teachers. The awards program is administered by the National Science Foundation on behalf of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. Teachers who are selected as PAEMST awardees receive a trip to Washington, D.C., where they attend a series of recognition events and professional development opportunities. They also receive a $10,000 award from NSF, a Presidential certificate, and join an elite cohort of award-winning teachers who can influence national STEM teaching.
DPW head announces upcoming retirement ELLINGTON — Timothy Webb, who has led the Department of Public Works since 2011, has announced that he will retire effective July 1. “I personally thank Tim for his leadership and attention to detail while keeping the broader picture in mind. ,” First Selectwoman Lori Spielman said. “His willingness to put in the extra time and effort to meet deadlines as well as to keep projects on track and on time and within budget has been invaluable.
It would be impossible to mention the tremendous number of contributions Tim has made during his tenure with the Town of Ellington. To name a few, Tim was instrumental in the development of the Pinney Street athletic fields. He fostered a strong focus on education and employee development, sending DPW crew members to many educational programs, including UConn’s CT Training & Technical Assistance Center (T2 Center), in an effort to promote a
safe and efficient transportation system.” Spielman cited Webb’s “vision” that brought residents to the annual DPW Open House and Food Drive. Webb spearheaded the connection of all town facilities to natural gas. He also worked to ensure that all town parking lots and street lighting was converted to LED. Webb obtained grant money to add and improve sidewalks along Middle Butcher Road, Main
Street, and other high traffic areas. He made sure all town buildings are outfit- Timothy Webb ted with generators to supply power during outages. As the town acquired properties, Webb worked to prepare the sites for future expansions. “Tim’s retirement is our loss, but a well-deserved respite for him,” Spielman said.
10 North Central News May 2022
We welcome you to dine, drink, and socialize in a place where great cooking and fantastic vibes meet. Our menu features dishes assembled from the freshest ingredients, sure to bring bold and inspiring flavor into your life. Come dine with us today!
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North Central News’
HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE
May 2022 North Central News
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North Central News’
HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE
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We're based in Tolland, CT, but our service area includes most of North-Central Connecticut and South-Central Massachusetts. We share a strong commitment to family values, and it comes across in the way that we do business. We always make an effort to treat our customers as a part of our extended family - with courtesy and respect. We pride ourselves on our ability to provide high quality services at fair and competitive prices. One thing that helps us stand out from our competition is that we enjoy good conversation. We strive to answer every phone call personally, although that keeps getting harder as our business continues to grow. But rest assured, if you have to leave a message, WE WILL RETURN YOUR CALL at our earliest opportunity. We are happy to answer any questions you may have, and we will do our best to explain things in a manner that makes you feel comfortable to have us service your home, business or property.
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ABOUT US Mr. T's Power Wash is a family owned and operated business with over thirty years of experience in the industry.
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Ellington From Ellington to ‘Chicago’: Resident helps direct performance SPRINGFIELD — Ellington resident Owen Feindel was the technical director for the Spring Musical “Chicago” at Western New England University on April 1-2. The satirical Chicago gives the audience a glimpse into how fame, justice, and the media machine were portrayed in the roaring ’20s. Filled with performances of hit songs such as “All That Jazz,” “Cell Block Tango,” and “Razzle Dazzle” the soldout shows production ended Stageless Players season on a high note. Chicago tells the story of Roxie Hart, a chorus girl who murders a faithless lover and convinces her husband, Amos, to take the blame until he learns that he has been lied to, which made him turn on Roxie. Convicted and sent to death row, Roxie met “Merry Murderess,” Velma Kelly. There began their struggle for the spotlight and the headlines which led to them ultimately joining forces in the search of fame, fortune, and acquittal. In his third show with the Stageless
The cast and crew of the Spring Musical “Chicago” at Western New England University. Photo courtesy of Western New England University Players and first musical Feindel took on the role of the technical director and worked to make sure the show ran smoothly. Feindel has years of experience being part of technical crews specifical-
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directed a comedy called “Agents of the White House Who Stop Leaks.” Feindel is working toward a BSE in civil engineering and looks forward continuing to work on more Stageless productions in the future.
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Enfield Bielenda named new assistant town manager ENFIELD — The Town of Enfield has announced the appointment of Steven V. Bielenda as its new assistant town manager. Bielenda officially assumed his new responsibilities on March 30, succeeding Kasia Purciello, who moved on to serve in another municipality. According to Mayor Bob Cressotti, Town Manager Ellen Zoppo-Sassu recommended this nontraditional appointment from a new direction by creating a “hybrid” position using Bielenda’s human resources background coupled with the assistant town manager responsibilities. “Merging these two positions together not only saves the town approximately $85,000 annually but it also allows the town manager, who is new herself, to rapidly fill a key position in this tight labor market,” Cressotti said. “Steve has over 12 years of work experience here which provides stability and consistency as she continues to familiarize herself with many
new faces, stakeholders, and residents here in Enfield.” Bielenda’s track record indicates his Steven Bielenda success working with all the unions. Zoppo-Sassu wanted to “tap into these rare cooperative attributes and apply them outside the employment circle.” Bielenda has served as Enfield’s director of human resources since Feb. 5, 2010 under four prior town managers. Previously, he worked as the director of human resources in East Hartford for eight years under Mayors Tim Larson and Melody Currey. Bielenda expressed delight in accepting the challenge of his new position. “When Ellen offered me this opportunity, I jumped at it. I love working with the employees here, serving the residents, and constantly learning the new projects and initiatives brought on by every new Town Council.”
Town-Wide Tag Sale returns The 10th anniversary of the Enfield Town-Wide Tag Sale will be held this year on Saturday, May 14, from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. (rain or shine). After a two-year hiatus, the organizers are ready and so excited to be able to bring the Townwide Tag Sale back to the residents of Enfield. Tag Sale addresses will be plotted on a map of Enfield that will be available to those interested in shopping on the week of May 9. Tag Sale signs will be placed at addresses and cross streets to guide shoppers prior to May 14. #ETWTS Maps will be available on the Facebook page first (Enfield Town Wide Tag Sale PLA). The #ETWTS Maps on the Facebook page can be downloaded and printed or saved to mobile devices. Hard copy #ETWTS maps will also be available for pick-up the week of May 9 at both Enfield Public Libraries, as well as other locations to
be determined townwide. Every year, 100% of the proceeds collected go directly to the Enfield Food Shelf, a nonprofit volunteer organization that is dedicated to “assuring that no Enfield resident goes hungry due to lack of resources.” Every $25 donation submitted will receive a tax-deductible receipt. Since its inception in 2011, the Enfield Town-Wide Tag Sale has hosted over 600 tag sales and raised more than $14,000 for the Enfield Food Shelf. Get more information about how you can make donations to the Enfield Food Shelf at its website www.EnfieldFoodShelf.org o r on its Facebook page Enfield Food Shelf, Inc. Contact tage sale organizers with any questions by email at PLATagSale@yahoo.com, on the Facebook page Enfield Town-Wide Tag Sale PLA or on Instagram at Enfield Town-Wide Tag Sale.
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Enfield Journey to teaching Spanish in Windsor began at Asnuntuck ENFIELD — Following graduation from Windsor Locks High School in 2014, Kasey Shemanskis was like a lot of high school graduates in that she was not sure what her next steps should be. “I felt very lost in my journey and did not know which career path to take. I chose to attend Asnuntuck because they offered a diverse course load. I wanted to explore my options and I felt Asnuntuck would be the best fit for me to try new things,” Shemanskis said. Shemanskis enrolled at Asnuntuck in the fall of 2014. She did not know she would find a passion and her career as part of her education. Like many high school students, Shemanskis had selected Spanish as her foreign language of choice at Windsor Locks High School. “I took Spanish all throughout high school and was very interested in becoming fluent. Once I graduated, I put that interest aside and chose to take a break from the language.” Now a Windsor resident, Shemanskis
said, “I ended up taking a beginner Spanish course at Asnuntuck in the fall of 2016 and fell back in love with the language. This is where my journey really began.” She credited Asnuntuck Adjunct Professor Linda Dalpe as the person who provided the spark she needed. “Linda was very passionate about teaching. She came to class every night excited and that energy transferred to her students. Linda not only taught us vocabulary and grammar but culture as well.” She noted, “An influential moment in her class for me was when she brought her good friend, Miguel, to the class to discuss a study away program located in Salamanca Spain. His presentation was inspiring and made me want to travel abroad.” Shemanskis said, “I was able to study abroad in Salamanca for one month in the summer of 2017 thanks to Linda’s help. It was an experience like no other. I immersed myself in a new culture. I ate new foods, explored new places, and met people from
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Asnuntuck graduate Kasey Shemanskis is now a Spanish teacher at Sage Park Middle School in Windsor. all over the world. This trip was life-changing. It encouraged me to continue learning. I had such an amazing time that I returned to Spain two years later.” According to Dalpe, Shemanskis was one of two Asnuntuck students who has benefited from the Ken Lester Summer Study Abroad Scholarship from The CT Council of Language Teachers. “It is $1,000 to a student who studies abroad in a language program — open to students K16.” She explained, “If my students want to apply for the CT COLT scholarship, I help them with the application. The study abroad experience is life-changing.” Dalpe added, “I had mentioned to Kasey how desperate we are for Spanish teachers and encouraged her to pursue a
career that she was passionate about ... and it will never be a job.” These immersive experiences helped Shemanskis feel confident in the next steps of her education. “After graduating from Asnuntuck, I continued my education at Keene State College. ... I graduated from Keene State with a double degree in Spanish and education.” She said, “Once at Keene State, I knew becoming a Spanish teacher was the perfect profession for me.” Shemanskis started her career in teaching as a long-term substitute at Granby Memorial High School in 2020. This year the Asnuntuck graduate is completing her first year as a Spanish teacher at Sage Park Middle School in Windsor.
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Enfield
Innovative performance to feature sign language ENFIELD — Opera House Players is performing “Next to Normal” from May 6 to May 22 (Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.) at the Enfield Annex (124 N. Maple St.). Tickets are $23 (adults) and $19 (under 12/over 60/students). Visit www.operahouseplayers.org /tickets or call or text the box office at (860) 292-6068. For group discounts for 10+ tickets, call the box office. Those planning to attend should read the COVID-19 policy before purchasing. There is priority seating for deaf/hard-of-hearing patrons and their friends and family. On May 15 there will be a panel discussion with Q&A after the show with the cast and production team about deaf inclusion in the arts. With book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey and music by Tom Kitt, “Next to Normal” tells the story of a family com-
ing to terms with crisis and mental illness. With provocative lyrics and a thrilling score, this musical has an emotional and hopeful story. It won three 2009 Tony Awards, including Best Musical Score and the 2010 Pulitzer Prize. It was also chosen as “one of the year’s 10 best shows” by critics across the country. Next to Normal will be a shadowed presentation featuring both speaking and signing actors, creating not only a vibrant and nuanced production, but also a powerful musical which will be fully accessible to the deaf community. This production is funded in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts with support from the Connecticut Deaf Theatre. This production is directed by Sharon FitzHenry with musical direction from Bill Martin and artistic sign language direction by Niki Mallach.
Joseph Ronan (ASL Henry) and Chris Webber (Voiced Henry) with Emily Catalfamo (ASL Natalie) and Samantha Choquette (Voiced Natalie). Photo by Sarah Stephens
THE LITTLE FISH MARKET WITH A BIG SELECTION! Above:Michael DeVito (Voiced Gabe) and Colby Trembley (ASL Gabe) with Dawn Maselli (ASL Diana) and KC Beauregard (Voiced Diana). Diana with Gabe and her doctor, played by Silk Johnson (Voiced Doctor) and Jeremy Michaud (ASL Doctor). Photos by Sarah Stephens
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Enfield
Rhyme time, other library events The Enfield Public Library, 104 Middle Road, is hosting the following programs. Call 860-763-7518 or visit https://www.enfieldpubliclibrary.org/ fo r more information. Library programs are free and all are welcome. Rhyme Time, a half hour of nursery rhymes, songs, and finger-plays, will take place Tuesday, May 10, at 6:30 p.m. This is a drop-in program that is designed to promote early language skills for ages birth to 24 months, accompanied by parents or caregivers. Meet the Author Jessica Barone will take place Thursday, May 12, at 6:30 p.m. Barone will share “Eternal Night,” first in her four book series, “The Shadowlands.” Featuring complex family dynamics worthy of day-time drama, The Shadowlands follows the journeys of three young people into the
world of the strigoi. The Taste Testers Cookbook Club will take place at 1 p.m. Thursday, May 12. The club invites all home cooks and culinary aficionados to join them in taste testing a cookbook. May’s cookbook selection is “Life is a Party ‘’ by David Burtka. Burtka is a Cordon-Bleu trained chef, actor and entertaining authority. Select a recipe, prepare it and bring it to share with others. Participants are asked to bring their own plates and flatware to reduce waste and minimize touch points. Enfield Lions pancake breakfast An all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast hosted by the Enfield Lions Club will take place from 8 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, May 7, at the Enfield Senior Center, 299 Elm St. All proceeds go directly back to the community. Tickets are available at the door: Adults, $6; seniors, $5; and under 12, $4. The Enfield Senior Center will be holding a craft and bake sale and The Garden Club will be having a plant sale outside at the same time.
Caught in the act of kindness Tyler M., center, of Enfield High School was nominated for the North Central Act of Kindness Award by Rebecca Gilhuly. “Tyler’s kindness touches everyone he interacts with and surely has a ripple effect throughout our community. He is an outstanding representative of Enfield High School and very deserving of this recognition.” As part of the award, students are given the opportunity to have a donation in their name given to a charity that inspires them. Tyler M., is donating to Susan G. Komen. Susan G. Komen for the Cure is a breast cancer awareness foundation that raises money to help research to find cures for breast cancer.
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Enfield
Garden Club plant sale The Enfield Garden Club will host its annual plant sale Saturday, May 7, from 8 a.m. to noon, rain or shine, on the front lawn of the Enfield Senior Center, 299 Elm St. The club offers a variety of members’ perennials and plants from its greenhouse along with annuals and hanging baskets from local garden centers. This year the club will also offer house plants and gently used garden related items. Visit the club’s website at www.enfieldgardenclub.org and on Facebook at Enfield.CTGardenClub. Asnuntuck registration Asnuntuck Community College will offer six- and eight-week online summer sessions beginning in May.
Asnuntuck’s six-week session will run June 1 through July 12, while the college’s eight-week session will begin June 1 and run through July 26. Medical, health, and manufacturing courses will begin May 23. Students who are on summer break from their four-year institution can consider taking a course at Asnuntuck and then transferring the credits back to their home institution. Prior to registering, students are advised to check with their college/university to determine whether the courses transfer. Course topics include many disciplines, including art, accounting, biology, business, chemistry, communications, early childhood, computer information systems technology, economics, English, history, human development, human services, manufacturing, medical assisting, philosophy, political science, psychology, and sociology. Rgister for an information session and learn more about Summer and Fall options by visiting https://asnuntuck. edu/admissions/how-to-enroll/. Fall classes start Aug. 29.
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For information regarding academic advising, visit www.asnuntuck.edu /advising. To view the summer and fall course bulletins visit https://asnuntuck.edu /choose-your-pathway/ Financial aid may be available for those who qualify. Contact Asnuntuck’s Financial Aid Office at asFinAid@Asnuntuck.edu for more information. Learn more about PACT (Pledge to Advance CT) funding by visiting https://www.ct.edu/pact. PACT funding covers the gap between federal and state grants you receive and community college tuition and mandatory fees. Martial arts clinics Enfield Recreation, in conjunction with Integrity Martial Arts of Enfield, is offering free two-day clinics for ages 6-10 years. Classes will be Saturday, May 14 and 21, 9:30-10 a.m. at the Integrity Martial Arts Studio. Spaces are limited and pre-registration is required. For complete details visit www. enfield-ct.gov/recreation. Fishing field trip Adults and families with children 8 years and older can take part in an upcoming fishing field trip. Join the CT DEEP CARE program to learn the basics of the sport and get started on a lifelong journey of fishing. All fishing equipment, bait, and expert instruction will be provided for use during the fishing trip, which will
take place on Tuesday, May 17, from 4:30 - 7:30 p.m. at Freshwater Pond. This program is free, however pre-registration is required online at www.ct.gov/DEEP. Youth fishing derby Enfield Recreation’s annual youth fishing derby is back on National Kids to Parks Day on Saturday, May 21, (rain date: Sunday, May 22) at Freshwater Pond. The derby is open to Enfield youth ages 15 and under and will run from 911 a.m. Prizes will be awarded for largest fish caught in each age group. Pre-registration is not required. For details visit www.enfield-ct.gov/recreation. Pets and play This parent-child class is a socialization opportunity designed for children, ages 3-5 years old, interested in pets. A Connecticut Humane Society educator will lead an age appropriate, weekly lesson about safe and kind interactions with pets. After the lesson, participants will have free time to explore our play lab. This is the perfect opportunity for your child to interact with other children their age. The program will be held Wednesdays, May 11 and 18 and June 1 and 8 at the Enfield Annex, 10-11 a.m. Spaces are limited and pre-registration is required. Fee is $8. Open to Enfield residents only. For complete details visit www.enfield-ct.gov/recreation.
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Somers
Worthington Winery set to open in town May 7 SOMERS — After 3½ years and over 20 meetings with the Somers Zoning Board, Worthington Pond Farm and Gardens will finally be open to the public as a farm winery on May 7. Mark and Karen Murdoch, who purchased the 88-acre property in October 2020, received approval to open when their special use permit was approved in February. The approval process took over two years because Somers did not have zoning regulations in place that allowed wineries. While the Zoning was in the process of revising the regulations across the board, COVID hit, as did a couple of other high-profile issues that delayed proceedings. Twenty-five years ago, Worthington
Pond Farm & Gardens, the brainchild of Dan Roulier, was an overrun farm. It has grown to become a scenic private park where visitors can walk nature trails, go fishing, and observe wildlife. It has been a “best kept secret” of locals for many years, going relatively unused and unseen by the general public. The property had been up for sale and was in danger of being acquired by corporate developers when the Murdochs met with Roulier about their dream to open a farm winery. That dream will become a reality on Mother’s Day weekend. The Murdochs have been wine makers for over two decades, having started with Crabapple wine made from fruit taken from their own trees in Broad
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Mark and Karen Murdoch will open Worthington Pond Farm and Gardens on May 7, the culmination of more than three years of work and 20 meetings with the Zoning Board. Brook. They have since moved to scenery. Somers and have grown grapes, raspAmong the four wines offered will berries, apples, peaches, and blueber- be a red Petit Sirah wine entitled ries, all of which have been used to “Perseverance;” reflecting the patience make their popular wines. and fortitude the couple has taken to They have now planted nearly 2,000 open their tasting room. grapes vines at Worthington Farm, Snack food, including cheese, fruit, including five cold-hardy grape vari- and crackers will also be offered, and eties. patrons will be allowed to bring their In May, Worthington Vineyard and own food to enjoy a picnic lunch. Winery will offer a tasting room where Hours of operation will be Fridays patrons will be able to taste and pur- from 2 to 7 p.m., Saturdays from noon chase four different wines and then take to 7 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 6 them out to the grounds to enjoy the p.m.
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Somers
Animal lover’s kindness rewarded As a part of winning the North Central Act of Kindness Award, students are given the opportunity to have a donation in their name given to a charity that inspires them. Mabelle B. Avery Middle School, Cooper L., will be donating to Best Friends Animal Society. Cooper is an avid animal lover, and that is shown through his choice to donate to Best Friends Animal Society. He chose this charity to help them in their mission to end the inhumane killing of animals in shelters all over the country and help find permanent loving homes for all animals who need one. Home Helpers Home Care and Enfield Tennis Club are sponsors of the program
Land Trust presents Mother’s Day hike SOMERS – On Sunday May 8, the Northern CT Land Trust will host a Mother’s Day hike on the McCann Family Farm at 10 a.m. This is a comfortable trail walk through the field and forest and is a good birdwatching habitat. Meet at the rear of the Somers Town Hall, 600 Main St., Rt. 190, near the intersection of Rt. 83 to car-pool to the trailhead. For questions, contact Albert Grant at 860-623-5487.
Town-Wide Tag Sale On April 7 the Board of Selectmen voted to name the first Saturday in May and October as Town-Wide Tag Sale Day. On these two days each year, the $5 per day tag sale permit fee will be waived. The first event will take place on May 7, and the fall event will be Oct. 1. The deadline for entry for the May event was May 4. Links for future Town-Wide Tag Sale Application and Guidelines are available at www.somerct.gov. Be sure to read the guidelines and send in your application. Submit the completed application to the Town Clerk's Office by email (dmarti@somersct.gov), drop box outside entry to Town Hall, USPS,
34 North Central News May 20222
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Indoor tag sale The area’s largest indoor tag sale is returning with thousands of well-priced items to choose from. Somers Congregational Church, 599 Main St. in Somers, will host their Indoor Tag Sale on Saturday, May 14, from 8 a.m. to3 p.m. and Sunday, May 15, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Items are sorted by category and are clearly priced to make finding treasures easier. Contact Somers Congregational Church’s office by calling (860) 7634021 or emailing: office@thesomerschurch.org if you have any questions.
Wine & beer lasting, fabulous food & decadent desserts, entertainment, silent & live auctions to support domestic violence prevention education and services offered at the Network Against Domestic Abuse. For more information or to make reservations, visit bidpal.net/purpleevent2022, text purpleevent2022 to 243725 or call 860.763.7430, ext. 300. An online auction will be provided for those who prefer to participate from home. The Network and the venue will be following all current C0VID-19 safety protocols issued by the State Health Department at the time of the event.
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or bring it into the Town Clerk’s Office. A confirmation email is then sent acknowledging receipt of your application for participation in the Somers Town-Wide Spring Tag Sale. A listing of all locations is posted on the town’s website and Facebook. If you should have any questions, contact the Town Clerk, David Marti, at (860) 763-8207 (8206) or by email: dmarti@somersct.gov.
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Somers Honor rolls SOMERS — The following Mabelle B. Avery Middle School students were named to the honor roll in the third quarter. GRADE 8 High honors: Tyler Beers, Patrick Burns, Roth Butler, Theodore Dandurand, Cole Delskey, Madeleine Dennis, Delaney Drinan, Haylie Fonseca, Claire Gaskell, Theodore Grzelak, Natalie Hoague, Michael Jensen, Ella Kahn, Sophia LaBua, Riley Maurice, Benjamin Medrek, Lily Meier, Ian Nunes, Daniella Percoski, Nathan Porier, Evan Poulin, Natalie Raina, Zoe Root, Madeleine Salka, Julia Settevendemie, Maya Skalski, Brant Stoltz. Honors: Harrison Accorsi, William Accorsi, Blake Babcock, Ellianna Brooks, Ella Brooks-Hurst, Ethan Caetano, Sadie Connell, Bailey-Rose Dickinson, Justin Felch, Drew Hoffman, Elizabeth Johnson, Gabrielle Kradas, Alejandro Lopera Arango, Gordon Madden, William McCarthy, Michael Mendoza-Cruz, Leo Nunes, Hailey
Schafer, Max Suchecki, Declan Sutter, Molly Tabb. GRADE 7 High honors: Alicia Bernier, Emma Besta, Jonathan Breton, Addison Cassidy, Carolyn Castonguay, Logan Caye, Katelyn Curran, Aja Drammeh, Alexander Gallacher, Matthew Halmers, Aubrielle Hevey, Samuel Hicking, Damien Huestis, Lainey Joyal, Maxwell Kelleher-Slocum, Callie Kobjack, Alexa Kukulka, Luke Lessard, Hannah Litz, Madeline Marcoux, Alexis McCarthy, Sydney Pinney, Lila Prayzner, Kaelina Rinaldi, Jayden Root, Alexa Thiesing, Brodie White, Alexandra Wolters. Honors: Georgia Asselin, Collin Brosseau, Parker Byo, Anabella Camerota, Jacob Carra, Charlee Cyr, Brandon Damboragian, Edward DePeau, Issac Diaz, Reiley Donald, Ella Donner, Sophia Doody, Drew Emlen, Logan Fritze, Gabe Harrison, Hadley Hogan, Georgia Kelleher-Slocum, Eva Kierstead, Kason Macnaught, Sophia Mosher, Liam Obernesser, Addison Riggins, Ella Ryll, Lucile Santanella, Hunter Tomalonis, Conor Warnock, Nikia Whynot.
Sensational spellers Julia Settevendemie (#11) of Mabelle B. Avery Middle School is the 2022 Connecticut Spelling Bee Champion. Hayden Hughes (#8) of Hughes Homeschool came in 2nd place.
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May 2022 North Central News
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38 North Central News May 2022
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Somers Honor rolls SOMERS — The following Somers High School students were named to the third quarter honor roll. GRADE 12 High honors: Luke Arnone, Jacob Avery, Cooper Barrett, Luke Boudreau, Amelia Carenzo, Aidan Connors, Austin Delesio, John Denehy, Benjamin Fawthrop, Anna Majowicz, Grace Majowicz, Doulgas Suter, Emily Tardif, John Zapolski, Katiya Zawrotny. Honors: Jacob Baer, Alexandria Bates, Brianne Boyd, Jade Breton, Kayla Brown, Mollie Burns, Taylor Byo, Daniel Crabb, Sarah Cranna, Caroline Curtis, Kaya Donah, Justin Donohue, Abigail Ellis, Matthew Fleischman, Dana Gall, Grace Gengenbach, Alex Grenier, Samantha Hansen, Patrick Herrity, Madison Hinkley, Gabriel Kukulka, Andrew Lyman, Dylan MacNaughton, Nicholas Mancuso, Mason Manzi, Taylor McCormick, Isabella Nolasco, Joshua Parent, Kush Patel, Connor Sparrow, Rachel St. Germain, Jonathan Tracey, Georgiana Turner, Lazaros Vasiliadis, Patricia Vivilecchia, Kaede Wood. GRADE 11 High honors: John Bonin, Nicholas Calcasola, Gabriel D'Amour, Alejandro Diaz, Gracie Flynn, Tait Gaudet, Alexa Gladysz, Ryan Halligan, Kaija Hjelm, April Kelly, Olivia Riley. Honors: Phillip Alaimo, Chloe
Albano, Owen Argiro, Jacqueline Bordeaux, Evalina Bruel, Arieanna Burnett, Ella Campion, Emma Cardinale, Laura Catellier, Michael Croyle, Devon Dalessio, Raya Davis, Oliver DeRoma, Erin Donohue, Cole Ferro, Robin Gaskell, Madison Gebo, Sarah Gill, Abigail Healy, Alex Hinds, Renee Hoague, James Johnson, Madizon Juzba, Kiana Kalman, Grace Kowal, Thomas Lesco, Kalvin Long, Meghan Martowska-White, James Maskill, Alexis Maurice, Colby McCormick, Marcus Powers, Kiara Ramirez-Robles, Elena Riggins, Jenna Riley, Evan Root, Jack Scott, Concetta Shewokis, Amanda Tardif, Kendal Terry, Sadie Vesco, Hallie Watt. GRADE 10 High honors: Grace Chagnon, Braden Davis, Faith Denault, Cody Ferrero, Olivia Gengenbach, Kristina Haraga, Maya Hudroge, Emma Martinik, Taylor Mynahan, Brooke Novak, Dara Salka, Sara St. Germain, Amanda Trask, Eliana Wood, Lauren Zapolski. Honors: Trinity Baj, Julian Banas, Kathryn Brown, Wilbur Bruso, Mara Butler, Lily Carzello, Lindsey Cashman, Jedric Clark, Saige Corbin, Grace Dina, Dylan Doody, Reese Emlen, Samantha Fancher, Kate Gebo, Alessandra Gioscia, Chloe Gowdy, Kate Grandpre', Riley Hareld, Taylor Illuzzi, Teegan Illuzzi, Dylan Kukulka, Jack Logan, Audrey Mahoney, Grace McGuinness, Rebecca Munson, Daisy Parker, Emma Pease, Sullivan Quirk,
Jennali Turner, Trent White, Melea Wolters, John Zdebski. GRADE 9 High honors: Jack Brayton, Jake Breton, Kathryn Burnett, Stephanie Burzynski, Mia Cardinale, Jack Chester, Avery D'Amour, Ave DePeau, James Gall, McKenna Halligan, Alyzabeth Halmers, Charlotte Hight, Bryce Huestis, Yanni Karaja, Kinsey Loupe, Jesse Martello, Juliette Mira, Evan Olearczyk, Thomas Saso, Maya Serrano. Honors: Leighanna Antonmarchi, Tatiana Arruda, Noelle Benedict, Matthew Bernier, Angelina Bollinger,
Andrew Cardwell, Madison Carra, Declan Case, Emma Cicciarella, Aiden Clarity, Lily Duff, Josiah Fasano, Rosabella Grimaldi, Emma Grimes, Madeline Guyette, Allie Hafford, Lyndsey Hale, Ethan Hartman, Cowen Joyal, Aubrie Kobjack, Krysta Laboda, Aiden Leiphart, Cooper Leonard, Ashley Lyons, Cody Marks, Chloe Mike, Fiona Pham, Brennan Pierce, Katelyn Provencher, Jocelyn Randall, Johan Rasid, Eric Renzoni, Christopher Rogers, Cristian Rosulschi, Riley Scavotto, Nico Skalski, Sophia Thomas, Emma Waters.
Celebrating a milestone performance Somers’ own Caroline Colton (pictured with father/coach George Colton) scored her 100th career goal during a 10-10 tie with East Catholic on April 21. Photo by Kade Redman
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STAFFORD VETERINARY CENTER, FOUNDED 1981 SUCCESS SELDOM COMES ABOUT FROM THE EFFORT OF A SINGLE PERSON. RATHER, IT RESULTS FROM THE EFFORT OF MANY. FROM A COLLABORATION. FROM COOPERATION. AND FROM A COMMUNITY. THE MORDASKY FAMILY WOULD LIKE TO THANK THOSE WHO HAVE SUPPORTED OUR GROWTH AS WE MOVE TO OUR NEW FACILITY AT 42 WEST MAIN STREET, STAFFORD SPRINGS, CT.
The Mordasky Family extends a heartfelt thank you to the following. Jennifer Alix Berkshire Hathaway
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Wendy Woloshchuk Details Interiors
Attorney Frank P Fitzgerald PC Air Serve Charles Callahan Stafford Veterinary Center Director of Finance Alex Jakobsen Stafford Veterinary Center Director of Maintenance
Otis Elevator John and Kim Soucy Soucy’s Concrete Matthew Antonacci USA Hauling and Recycling
Stan Szestowicki - Surveyor Todd Aldrich Windows Robert Haveles architectural Insights
Robert tronsky – Prestige Cabinetry
Jim, Jaimye, and Colleen Kelley Kelley Building Group
r. fence and masonry Chris Goff– Alarm New England
Town of Stafford, Building & Zoning Department
Penny Roy – Castle Moving
Dave Perkins - Town of Stafford ZEO
AL WILLIAMS – Cox Business
Glenn Setzler Town of Stafford - Building Official
Anna Meehan – Janiking Willington Pest Control
40 North Central News May 2022
Wes Lirot Town of Stafford - Sanitarian
kim and karl Milikowski Foster Hill Farm
Mark Morrison town of Stafford – Fire Marshall
Elaine & Zig Kertenis - Enfield Transit Mix
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Stafford
Taking the ‘Polar Plunge’ Staff from the schools in the Stafford School District participated in a “Polar Plunge” event March 31 to benefit the Special Olympics. Thousands of dollars were donated to the Special Olympics by staff who donated in order to participate by plunging into Staffordville Lake or to participate by being part of the “beach team” who supported the swimmers by having dry towels and hot chocolate, and by donations from family and friends of the plungers who sponsored them. Photos courtesy of Stafford School District
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Stafford Actress from Willington is on the rise
Ellington, Somers drivers fare well at Spring Sizzler STAFFORD — Stafford Motor Speedway kicked off the 2022 season with “The Greatest Race in the History of Spring,” the 50th annual NAPA Spring Sizzler with Open Modified cars. Matt Hirschman led the race twice for a total of 43 laps, including 22 of the final 23 laps as he came out on top of a late race duel between himself and Ryan Preece. Area drivers Ronnie Williams of Ellington Matt Hirschman celebrates after winning the 50th annual NAPA (4th) and Todd Owen of Somers (14th) also fared well. Spring Sizzler. Photo courtesy of Stafford Motor Speedway
50th Annual NAPA Spring Sizzler 1) Matt Hirschman, Northampton, Pa. 2) Ryan Preece, Kannapolis, N,C, 3) Ronnie Silk, Norwalk 4) Ronnie Williams, Ellington 5) Jimmy Blewett, Howell, N.J. 6) Matt Galko, Meriden
7) Chase Dowling, Roxbury 8) Michael Christopher, Jr., Wolcott 9) Jon McKennedy, Chelmsford, Mass. 10) Craig Lutz, Miller Place, N.Y. 11) Eric Goodale, Riverhead, N.Y. 12) Matt Swanson, Harvard, Mass. 13) Chuck Hossfeld, Lockport, N.Y. 14) Todd Owen, Somers 15) Stephen Kopcik, Newtown
16) Teddy Hodgdon, Danbury 17) Doug Coby, Marion 18) Buddy Charette, Woodstock 19) Brian Robie, Sunapee, N.H. 20) Andrew Molleur, Shelton 21) Dave Etheridge, Portland 22) Jack Ely, Howell, NJ 23) Jeff Gallup, Agawam, Mass. 24) Woody Pitkat, Bellingham, Mass. 25) Chris Pasteryak, Moosup 26) Noah Korner, Avon 27) Bobby Labonte, High Point, N.C. 28) Anthony Nocella, Berlin, Mass. 29) Marcello Rufrano, North Haven 30) Patrick Emerling, Orchard Park, N.Y. 31) Mikey Flynn, Hampden, Mass. 32) Anthony Flannery, East Hampton 33) Anthony Bello, Newtown
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WILLIMANTIC — Abigail Donaghy was 13 years old when her father brought her to an open audition in New York City and her life changed forever. Today, at 22, she is a full-time student at Eastern Connecticut State University who is managing a budding career as an actress. The history major from Willington has appeared in movies and television series on Netflix, HBO Max, Showtime, and Amazon Prime Video. Donaghy has appeared in a number of well-known productions, including a principal role in the Netflix film “The Half of It”; a co-star role in episode five of the HBO Max series “Love Life”; and the role of 16-year-old Midge in season 4, episode 7 of “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.” Despite the unique and exciting experience of being a working actor and college student, Donaghy says that balancing the two can be difficult. Crucial to her success is a strong work ethic, often completing assignments early to avoid falling behind. However, Donaghy said the pandemic eased some of her acting stressors. And she said when acting takes her time, her professors have always been understanding. “I’ve been lucky so far,” she said. “I hope that I keep getting to work for as long as I can.”
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42 North Central News May 2022
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Stafford Honor roll STAFFORD — The following students were named to the Stafford High School honor roll in the second quarter: High honors Grade 12 Zoila Arteaga, Logan Briggs, Michelle Camara, Jordan Chiles, Emma Dean, Genevieve Drouin, Makayla Dubicki, Samuel Fagerquist, Crystal Gagner, Ashley Hornung, Samantha King, Jesse Maloney, Nicoles Marrero Medina, James Mayo, Mark McLaughlin, Chantel Nethercott, Aine O’Neil, Kara Puglisi, Jaden Reynolds, Sabrina Sedor, Caitlyn Thayer, Jasmine Torres, Sara Woodworth, Megan Worthington, Dylan Wytas, Emily Yefko. Grade 11 Isabella Brodeur, Raina Caro,
Camron Cruz, Kaitlyn Gaudet, Isabella Irwin, Kristine Johnson, Drew Ledbetter, Patrick Lusa, Mathew Neves, Nyah Nevins, Catherine Paine, Maren Pekrul, Evan Simlick, Hayden Verney. Grade 10 Benjamin Agostinucci, Calvin Bareiss, Gavin Beauchamp, Makenna DeNunzio, Braelyn Fitzgerald, Halle Gudeman, Riley Kology, Kristina Lanzieri, Haeley Leeman, Andrew Levesque, Michael Myron, Angus Sprague, Gavin Stevens, Ava Strickland, Camryn Sullivan, Annie Vaiciulis, Demetri Vella, Zoey Zawodniak. Grade 9 Carolyn Beebe, Jacob Bouchard, Andrew Conceicao, Rylee Conceicao, Anthony Coporale, Nicole Cunha, Kaylib Dorbat, Anna Fahey, Garrett Fuller, Liam Gilbert, Najalyce Granteed, Layla Gustin, Ryan Haff,
Elizabeth Hansen, Kara Hoefle, Jadyn Kun, Molly Merritt, Ella Ohlendorf, Joshua Ouellette, Henry Pace, Alison Panciera, Selena Perez, Daniel Pucci, Ash Silvernail, Samantha Simlick, Lorenzo Vella. Honors Grade 12 Tyler Barrette, Tristan Barton, Tommy Bean, Derek Davis, Leah Davis,Grace Dow, Abigail Fitzgerald, Elizabeth Forrest, Cooper Grant, Kalye Gutierrez, Sonney Inthisorn, Olivia Kibbe, Kloey Kun, Hailey Langlois, Jillian Mangold, Andrew McGann, Isaac Minaya, Robert Olden III, Lucia Sanchez, Amy Valdiglesias. Grade 11 Dylan Balboni, Ivy Bard, Lindsay Briggs, William Campbell, Kacie Consolini, William Depault, Colin Egan, Carolyn Emhoff, Samuel Formus, Ryan Gilluly, Braeden Gray,
Collin Gudeman, Jimi Hubbard, Sierra Jones, Jhatna Mata, Alexa Morel, Andrea Moulton, Jaelyn Moulton, Janette Olan, Camden Smith, Evan Sokolowski, Noah Toney, Joshua Tuller, Mikayla Viger, Derek Wyse. Grade 10 Bradley Baker, Philip Balanceau, Alayna Donovan, Mason Frati, Kaelie Gladysz, Nathaniel Grady, Cole Hasel, Sage Hornacek, Logan Lovley, Dylan Maney, Rebecca Minaya, Wesley Murdock, Elizabeth Murray, Lyndsey Sklenka, Gavin Strout, Natalia Talamini, Thomas Tantillo, Angelo Vella, Makenzie Warren, Robert Wolicki. Grade 9 Justice Allen, Allison Broderick, Jack Harvell, James Ingham, Kaiden Jellison, Nathan Kobee, Hailey Polzun, Noah Synnott.
Stafford school students to represent state at national invention convention
ECSU students make NYC presentation Jordyn Powell of Stafforfd Springs, left, with Paulina Hernandez Galindo, and Meganlyn Delaney were among Eastern Connecticut State University psychology majors presented student-faculty research projects at the annual Eastern Psychological Associations meeting in New York City on March 5.
STAFFORD — Bode Carreira and Xavier Nelson have placed as top students in the United States through the Connecticut Invention Convention program. They have been invited to represent Connecticut at the Raytheon Technologies Invention Convention U.S. Nationals 2022. This year’s event will be June 1-3 at Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation in Dearborn, Michigan Bode’s invention, called Gaugeifing Glass, is a device that can help someone read a propane gauge better. Bode is in the fifth grade at Stafford Elementary School. Xavier’s invention, called Pesca Bagger, is a biodegradable fishing net that helps reduce fishing net waste or ghost fish-
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ing in bodies of water. Xavier is in the 6th grade at Stafford Middle School. By competing in the Connecticut Invention Convention, Bode and Xavier have proven to be problem seekers, researchers, designers, engineers and problem solvers. Now they need your help. Consider sponsoring these inspiring young entrepreneurs by helping send them to the National Invention Convention. You can help fund Bode and Xavier by writing a check to: Stafford Public Schools Student Activity Fund, Attn: Lynn Erickson, National Invention Convention, Stafford Elementary School, 11 Levinthal Run, Stafford Springs, CT 06076.
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Suffield
Baseball trivia Enjoy an evening of baseball trivia and compete for prizes at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 12, at Kent Memorial Library, 50 N. Main St. The contest will be led by Karl Cicitto of SABR (Society for American Baseball Research). One round will focus on the 2021 season; the other will be about 2022. The evening is suitable for baseball fans of any level of expertise. Register for this free program in person, by calling 860-668-3896 or at suffield-library.org.
Agriculture Day at the Capitol State Rep. Tami Zawistowski recently welcomed students from the Suffield regional agriscience program to the State Capitol on Agriculture Day. “It's always a pleasure meeting with student groups at the Capitol and sharing an inside look at their government,” Zawistowski said. “Agriculture Day recognizes the important role of farming in Connecticut, and I'm proud to serve communities that celebrate that agricultural heritage.” After a pandemic hiatus, the annual ‘Ag Day’ returned, bringing together farmers, vo-ag students, interest groups, and legislators to celebrate state agriculture.
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PMC Kids Ride The Suffield Pan-Mass. Challenge Kids Ride to benefit the Jimmy Fund will take place May 7 at McAlister School. Registration is at 9 a.m., the ride is 10-11, and food & fun 11-1. Register to ride, volunteer or donate at kids.pmc.org/suffield. Day of rider registrations will be accepted as well.
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Suffield Former resident earns major honor from Big Brothers/Sisters
Garden Club returning to its roots with annual May Market this month
HARTFORD — Big Brothers Big Sisters of Connecticut has announced that Lisa Bonner, on right at right, has won the organization’s Victoria L. Soto Memorial Award for 2022. The award was presented at the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Year Awards event May 19 at the Mark Twain House & Museum in Hartford. Bonner lived in Suffield for 17 years and is still well known in the community. Currently a West Hartford resident, Bonner is the go-to-marketing director at Evernorth, a division of Cigna Corp. She has been a mentor for the past five years at the site-based youth mentoring program at the Cigna campus in Bloomfield that’s managed by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Connecticut. Bonner is pictured with Little Sister Adeyinka, on left, one of her mentees in the Cigna mentoring program. Learn more at: www.ctbigs.org.
SUFFIELD — The Suffield Garden Club’s members are ready to welcome all who are interested to their annual May Market on May 14. The event will be held on the grounds of the Phelps-Hatheway House Barn, 55 S. Main St. There will be free admission. The event will take place ran or shine from 9
a.m. to 3 p.m. Taking part will be 35 vendors and food vendors who will be selling everything from local honey to arts and crafts to garden-themed items. The members booth will be selling its home-grown perennials that are proven to grow in our areas. All pots are 4inches and will be $5 each
The Suffield Garden Club’s May Market will take place May 14.
SPRING is HERE!
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